PITTSBURGH — It’s long been assumed that the Pirates would be busy at (and around) the MLB trade deadline. How they kicked things off, however, was a little unexpected, sending Daniel Vogelbach to the New York Mets on Friday in exchange for major league pitcher Colin Holderman.
Vogelbach, a designated hitter they signed this offseason to a one-year deal worth $1 million — plus a team option for next season — has worked out exactly as planned, hitting .228 with a .769 OPS through 75 games, which includes 10 doubles, 12 home runs and 34 RBIs.
The patient approach exhibited by Vogelbach at the plate has been a big part of the Pirates’ — albeit sporadic — offensive improvements, while he’s been a seamless fit inside the clubhouse, his loud personality serving to help unite a young team.
